2025 Southern Guide

22 North is a highly acclaimed Wrightsville Beach restaurant that serves up classic southern fare with a Creole and French flair. Located on Lumina Avenue, just a block or so away from the Causeway to the beach, this fresh restaurant is one of the...

The Bar-B-Que House is a favorite local destination for southern food fans to load up on plates of barbecue, southern sides, and all the fixins’. Located along East Oak Island Drive, just a couple blocks away from the beach, this small but...

Beach House Burgers is a classic burger shack that’s convenient to visitors who are lounging along the Kure Beach shoreline. Located less than a block away from the oceanfront, this seasonal stand features all the beachy classics, including...

Big Daddy’s Restaurant is a classic Kure Beach establishment that has been feeding hungry vacationers since 1970. A popular destination due to its long legacy as a central seafood-focused restaurant, Big Daddy’s serves up big platters of...

Billy Ray’s Family Restaurant is a unique destination that attracts sports fans and southern cooking fans alike. Located in a busy but more local section of Carolina Beach Road, this relatively new eatery serves up big plates, cold drinks, and...

The Boathouse restaurant is a moderately-sized and unimposing restaurant that’s located in a quiet section of Wilmington, close to Bradley Creek. But although it’s easy to miss, seafood fans will want to take a detour to find this subtle...

Downtown Wilmington is known for its collection of hip restaurants with culinary inspirations from around the world, and the centrally located Bourbon Street is no exception. Found just a block away from the waterfront, this cool food and drink...

For a full range of seafood and steak selections that is complemented with waterfront views, head to the edge of the Wrightsville Beach Causeway to the distinctive Bridge Tender Restaurant. Found within a unique weather-worn building, this lunch and...

The Cape Fear Restaurant and Lounge is a vintage and family-friendly seafood restaurant that’s perched on the edge of the Cape Fear River in the heart of Downtown Southport. An easy destination for visitors who want a bite to eat after taking...

Captain Pete’s Seafood Restaurant is an acclaimed destination for Holden Beach vacationers to enjoy a big seafood-centric dinner, a round of refreshing cocktails, and an outstanding waterfront view, thanks to the restaurant’s location...

Carolina BBQ House is a home-style buffet that offers big southern dishes to big southern appetites. Offering a rotating selection of comfort food with all the fixins’, this hearty destination will appease all-you-can-eat fans with big...

For breakfast, lunch and dinner, Carolina Girls’ Grillin’ Café is always cooking up something good. Located just north of Wilmington, on the outskirts of Castle Hayne, this eatery has a ton of big flavor that belies its small...

Where do you go in Wilmington for authentic southern soul food that includes everything from all-you-can-eat BBQ and fried chicken to Chitlins’? You head to Casey’s Buffet and BBQ. With never-ending helpings of filling fare, friendly...

Catch has been making waves on the Wilmington dining scene since first opening in 2006, thanks to its award-winning and famous chef and owner, Keith Rhodes. Rhodes was a contestant on the national television show Top Chef and has since returned to...

The Causeway Café is a sunny little breakfast and lunch spot that has a prime location on the very edge of the Wrightsville Beach Causeway. Popular for a pre-beach breakfast that is undeniably filling, this traditional southern restaurant...

Causeway Gourmet is a delectable dine-in, take-out, and delivery spot where Ocean Isle Beach vacationers can feast on a wealth of freshly made sandwiches, entrees, salads, and so much more. Located on the inland side of the causeway to the beach...

Chasers Bar & Grill is a fun hang out for Oak Island locals and visitors alike, thanks to a friendly and nicely casual environment, plenty of game-worthy TVs, and a host of traditional bar food that goes well with a cold after-beach beer...

Indecisive diners will have a fine time at Circa 1922. This chic tapas bar and restaurant has a prime Downtown Wilmington location, and a wonderfully varied menu that allows patrons to sample veritably every elevated cuisine under the Cape Fear sun.

The Copper Penny is a favorite go-to for Downtown Wilmington pub fans and beer lovers, thanks to a great combination of an extensive beer menu, tasty and filling cuisine, and an undeniably cool atmosphere.

David’s Deli & Restaurant is a solid breakfast or lunch destination for vacationers who are cruising from the mainland to the Wrightsville Beach shoreline. Located along Eastwood Drive, this casual and family-friendly destination features...

Wilmington visitors who want the appeal of an oceanfront beach restaurant without taking a spin across the Wrightsville Beach Bridge can pop into the Dockside Restaurant. Located on the waterfront border, with a cool exterior that boasts an...

There’s nothing like enjoying a stunning waterfront view, and Elijah’s has a prime location along the Cape Fear River on the edge of Wilmington’s historic downtown. Featuring both indoor and seasonal outdoor tables, this little...

Falcone’s Italian Restaurant and Pizza is a classic Italian food restaurant in a slightly busy section of Leland that’s easy to reach via US Highway 17. Tucked away in a busy shopping center, this small but welcoming restaurant features...

Famous Pizza and Subs is a convenient destination for a crowd pleasing take-out or fast and casual dine-in meal, just outside of Downtown Southport. Located close to the junction of 87 and 211 – the two main roads that lead to Southport...

The Fish House Grill is located on the foot of the Wrightsville Beach Drawbridge, and has been a Wilmington institution for generations of hungry, seafood loving patrons. The idyllic setting perfectly complements the extensive and seafood-heavy...

Blue Water Point Motel & Marina is an all-encompassing destination for mariners who are cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway to dock, dine, and enjoy a night off the water in the small coastal town of Oak Island.

The Fishy Fishy Café is a favorite dining and drinks destination for Southport visitors, due to a prime location on the edge of the Intracoastal Waterway where the views are out of this world. Located next to a collection of local marinas...

Oceanfront dining is always a thrill for Cape Fear visitors, and the Flying Fish Café is a favorite spot on Oak Island for visitors to feast on coastally-inspired creations while enjoying a lovely on-the-sand view. With both traditional and...

Beer fans who want to see what brews the Coastal Carolina region can cook up can pay a lunchtime, dinnertime, Happy Hour or late night visit to Front Street Brewery. Known for a collection of flagship brews that are available in kegs, German...

Head to the very edge of waterfront Southport to enjoy a fine meal with an unbeatable view at the Frying Pan. This restaurant that’s located on the edge of Bay Street boasts local and down-home favorites like sweet potato biscuits, fried...

Goody Goody Omelet House Restaurant has the look, the feel, and the grub of a classic southern breakfast and lunch joint, with an accompanying long menu that features all the classics. Located in a vintage building along busy Market Street, this...

The Cape Fear region is home to a wealth of good old fashioned southern cooking, and Carolina Beach’s own Grannys Country Kitchen brings these comfort food flavors to the heart of the shoreline, with a central locale that’s just a block...

The Gulf Stream Restaurant is a casual little restaurant that borders a handful of shops and marinas in the heart of Carolina Beach. Featuring a classic exterior and a wealth of classic back-to-basic eats, this family-friendly restaurant has just...

BEST FOOD ON THE ISLAND, HANDS DOWN

For fine cuisine that benefits from an overall “Farm to Table” philosophy, visitors can head over to Henry’s. Boasting a vintage warm interior with a long bar and an accompanying collection of booths and tables, and a commercially...

This brightly colored and expansive restaurant along Market Street is an eye-catching destination for seafood fans. Featuring a far-reaching menu of steamed, broiled, grilled and fried seafaring creations, Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster...

Hops Supply Co is a fresh gastropub on Oleander Drive that impresses patrons with its equally distinctive drink and food menus. With an internal dedication to provide an exceptional beer selection, as well as fresh and flavorful cuisine, Hops Supply...

Water lovers can enjoy a decadent seafood meal that’s complemented with a stunning view of the ocean with a visit to Oak Island’s Island Way. Located along Beach Road and bordering a quiet stretch of sand that’s home to small...

When you’re in the south, you have to chow down on big plates of homestyle BBQ, and Jackson’s Big Oak Barbecue doesn’t disappoint southern food fans, thanks to a hefty menu that’s loaded with all the staples. Featuring a...

Jax Fifth Avenue Deli & Ale House may look like a Swiss retreat, but the downhome cuisine and friendly atmosphere is the hallmark of a southern destination. Featuring an expansive interior with plenty of bar seating and TVs to watch the big...

Jebby’s on 17 is an American grill and sports bar that’s impossible to miss, thanks to a convenient locale along Highway 17 in Hampstead, and a vibrant blue exterior that’s perfect for its close-to-the-coast locale. A fun...

Jerry’s is the brainchild of Jerry Rouse – a Wilmington local who is famed for his nearly 40 years of catering experience. While fresh catering is still available, everyday patrons without a big party to plan can still taste the cuisine...

Jimbo’s Breakfast & Lunch House, an old school diner-style restaurant with a vintage exterior and sky-high sign, is a time-tested staple for solid breakfast and lunch fare in a basic but nevertheless inviting family-style environment...

Jones’ Seafood House is a local restaurant in the heart of Oak Island that has been serving vacationers for more than 50 years. A popular spot for generations of families who return year after year, the restaurant has heaping plates of seafood...

King Neptune Restaurant is an all-encompassing breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night hot spot that boasts a friendly hometown vibe, and a big wave of classic American fare with a coastal and southern influence. Known as a solid breakfast and lunch...

Las Olas Mexi-Q Grill is a relatively new but popular restaurant that is a sister restaurant to Wilmington’s acclaimed surfer hang-out, K-38. Found in the heart of the Mayfaire area along Military Cutoff Road, this Fresh Mex establishment is...

Live Oak Café is a small but charming restaurant that’s found in a quiet and slightly inland region of historic Downtown Southport. Located within a turn-of-the-century home with three small dining rooms with beautiful bold...

Southport visitors who are in need of a strong cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast or lunch to start their downtown exploration will find everything they crave at the centrally located Locals Family Diner. Featuring a wealth of crowd-pleasing...

Manna is an enticing fine dining destination in the heat of Downtown Wilmington that applies French techniques to elevated American fare. Using local ingredients whenever possible, diners will be treated to a multi-course menu that is sure to be a...

Mermaid’s Island Grill is a cool restaurant in the heart of Holden Beach that’s known for cold cocktails, good beachy fare, and a laid-back atmosphere that fits in perfectly with the shoreside environment. Located just across the bridge...

Merritt’s Burger House is a classic little drive-in joint that’s been a subtle Wilmington institution for generations. Featuring a drive-in style exterior, complete with an old-school sign, this simple little burger restaurant serves up...

Mike’s Fresh Seafood is located along a busy section of Market Street, but is often overlooked by seafood fans as its rustic exterior and convenience-store vibe might not register with visitors who are looking for fresh casual seafood either...

Mission BBQ has a cool location, cool interior, and a big menu that boasts a world of bold and classic southern flavors. Opened on September 11, 2011 by two friends who went on a cross-country tour to discover the flavors of truly exceptional...

Mr. P’s Bistro is a fine representation of Low Country cuisine, thanks to a long family history in the local Cape Fear seafood industry. Overseen by Executive Chef and the original Mr. P’s son, Stephen Phipps, (who trained at the Johnson...

Visitors who crave a refreshing seaside bite with an unbeatable view will want to check out the Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar. Sandwiched in between two hotels, and perched directly on the oceanfront with a long pier that extends to the water’s...

Ogden Tap Room is Wilmington’s newest haven for beer lovers, thanks to an extensive beer menu that includes 40 rotating beers on tap. Coupled with an inviting interior, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a full menu of great pub fare, Ogden Tap...

Old Bridge Diner is a classic breakfast, lunch, and dinner spot that’s both budget-friendly and easy to reach for visitors who are staying both on and off Oak Island. Located on Country Club Drive, and almost hidden next to a busy convenience...

The Olde Salty’s is a local icon that has been serving Carolina Beach vacationers for more than 20 years. Found within a fairly non-descript building along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, this classic lunch and dinner spot serves up...

Pembroke’s is a favorite choice for fine dining in the Mayfaire region of Wilmington. Located just off of Military Cutoff Road, longtime fans declare that Pembroke’s is more of a “dining experience” than a place to go to eat...

Fresh seafood, southern cuisine, and the Downtown Wilmington waterfront all seem to go together seamlessly, and the fare and atmosphere at The Pilot House is no exception to this rule. Found within a former historic residence that dates back to...

PinPoint Restaurant is a chic little downtown restaurant with a big reputation as the perfect destination for a romantic Wilmington date night. Featuring a relatively seasonal menu that showcases local ingredients at every opportunity, the colorful...

Pirate’s Table Seafood Restaurant is a classic seafood restaurant that’s found along Carolina Beach road, and features all the Cape Fear region classics, but without the big close-to-the-beach prices. With a simple exterior and a simple...

College students and professors who need a filling pick-up in between classes, or visitors who are taking a tour of the extensive UNCW campus, will want to look for the distinctive Poor Piggy’s food truck. With fresh southern fare that’s...

Pop’s Diner is a nostalgic little eatery that will bring a smile to any Carolina Beach vacationer’s face. Carolina Beach's only late night diner that is open 7 days a week for lunch, dinner and late night!  Featuring a cool...

Port Land Grille is becoming one of Wilmington’s favorite destinations for delicious steaks and refined entrees in a warm and elegant atmosphere. Convenient for visitors staying in both Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, and boasting a broad...

Ports of Call Bistro & Market is a catch-all destination for Southport food lovers of all tastes. Featuring an in-house bakery and market, as well as a dining area that serves up both fresh lunch and dinner selections, this Downtown Southport...

For a cool cocktail to top off a long downtown exploration, or an easy-going and sunny meal to complement the waterfront surroundings, head to Southport’s Provision Company. Located on the edge of the Intracoastal Waterway, and recently named...

Russell’s Place Restaurant is a classic breakfast and lunch restaurant that brings traditional diner-style and wholly American fare to the heart of the Cape Fear region. With a basic but sprawling menu that focuses on all the breakfast and...

Rx Restaurant and Bar has a goal to feed the soul, with a distinctively fresh menu that uses local ingredients from regional growers, farmers and fishermen. With complementing drinks that are just as unusual as the food, patrons can enjoy a...

The SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar is a casual little spot that has a definitive coastal vibe and a hearty menu that’s seemingly designed to appeal to salty appetites. Found just a block away from the oceanfront, and bordered by palm trees, this...

Shirley’s Diner is a super casual restaurant that’s initially easy to miss, due to a Leland location that’s tucked away behind a busy shopping center, but which remains a popular destination for locals who are in the mood for good...

Boasting an incredible location surrounded by water, and an arsenal of amenities just waiting to be enjoyed by vacationers, the Shoals Club is easily one of the most unique and accommodating community clubs on Bald Head Island. With fun and active...

Seafood lovers who don’t mind getting their hands dirty will want to take a stroll to the Shuckin’ Shack. Located in the heart of Downtown Wilmington along a busy section of Market Street, this casual and cool seafood joint is the...

A lot of newcomers are a little wary when they first arrive at Silver Hill Grill. Located in Supply, NC – which is just inland from Holden Beach – and found within a simple, one-story building that’s bordered by local homes, this...

Something Fishy Seafood Restaurant is a back-to-basics seafood shack that’s found in central Wilmington along a quieter and less bustling section of College Road. Found within a modest sized but distinctive bright yellow and blue diner-style...

For a no-frills breakfast or afternoon meal that’s loaded with southern flavor and coastal North Carolina staples, head to Sonja’s Grill. Found just off of Highway 17, and convenient to visitors who are exploring all along the Cape Fear...

Treat yourself to real wood-smoked BBQ and brisket, a mess of classic southern sides, and a friendly family environment with a visit to Southport Smoke House. Located on the outskirts of Howe Street on the edge of the Historic Southport Downtown...

There’s always something sumptuous to discover at Sweet N Savory Café – an artful little eatery that’s found on the edge of Wilmington’s Landfall Park, and the River to the Sea Bikeway. The interior is vibrant and...

The name of “The Basics” is also an illusion to this casual eatery’s philosophy, which is to serve up all the stales of southern comfort food, keep it simple, and let the inherently rich and wonderful flavors shine.

The Dive is an ultra-casual little spot that’s a fun destination for the after-hours beach crowd. Located just off of US 421, and bordered by a collection of beach bars, motels and restaurants, this little establishment is a subtle addition to...

The Dixie Grill is a down-home taste of southern cuisine in the heart of Downtown Wilmington. Found in a modest building just a couple blocks away from the waterfront, this breakfast, lunch and dinner spot is a longtime local icon, and a great spot...

The Grille At Bald Head Island Club is a posh option for Bald Head Island visitors to feast on a seasonal selection of southern-inspired cuisine. Located on the southwestern edge of the island, and on-site for the convenience of club guests, the...

The Pharmacy Restaurant is a New American restaurant that has a lot of historic southern style, and a cool location in the heart of the downtown area. Found along Moore Street and bordered by small patio tables that are shaded under the blue and...

Tommy Thompson’s Grille is an on-site restaurant that’s found within the private golfing community, The Clubs at St. James. Featuring a la carte and more casual dining, as well as a daily soup, salad bar, and a full-service bar for...

Tower 7 Baja Mexican Grill is a sister restaurant to Wilmington’s famed K-38, and is a Fresh Mex joint that is extremely popular with the surfer crowd, and everyday locals and visitors alike. Serving up a wealth of Mexican cuisine that’s...

Sometimes a name says it all, and Two Fat Ladies Over a Simmering Pot is a local favorite for sumptuous soul food that’s made right, at a slow pace, and is served with a dose of southern hospitality. Take-out or dine-in patrons will know...

The Village Cafe & Deli is a unique little gem in the heart of Hampstead that’s found just off of US Highway 17 and, at first glance, looks like a residential home or business Visitors who find this little restaurant, however, will be...

Whiskey Trail Pub & Grill is a hidden gem that’s tucked away near the Masonboro Sound, and which serves as a popular hang-out for Wilmington residents in the Masonboro Loop and Monkey Junction area. Serving up good food and a fun bar...

White Front is a no-frills breakfast joint that’s found within a weather-worn, one-story building on the outskirts of the downtown area, and despite its humble exterior, is a popular local go-to for good breakfast food without the fuss...

For a classic coastal bite to eat that’s almost eclipsed by the brilliant view, head to Yacht Basin Eatery. This waterfront restaurant with seasonal outdoor seating and a location on the very edge of downtown Southport features impressive...